Savings on AEOS scheme

The Agri-Environment Options Scheme (AEOS) is due to open in the New Year which can result in a savings for farmers if they get involved tree planting and hedge planting.

Pauraic Larkin of P. Larkin Tree Nursery says the scheme is " good news" as a properly drawn up AEOS. plan will leave more money in your pocket than previous REPS schemes.

He advises those wishing to join the 2011 scheme that they should fulfil the following criteria.

If you can answer yes to the following questions: Have you a herd / equine / sheep number? If you have finished in REPS before the or on April 30, 2011? Do you have a copy of your 2010 SPA form? Are you registered for SPS online?

He says although there is no set date for the AEOS scheme opening but as rough guide last years scheme opened in mid-March.

He says if you are left asking whats the rush in getting involved in the this years scheme he points out that last year it was only opened for eight weeks.

"Last year's scheme was only open for a mere eight weeks leaving a very narrow window of opportunity," Pauraic stated.

He says demand will come from three categories including 10,000 farmers who at this stage will have finished up in R.E.P.S. 3 and will want to join. People who left it too late to join in 2010 and also new entrants.

He said he would strongly recommend those considering the scheme to get working on the preparation of their application.

"As you may appreciate, if you order your paperwork in time, stressful delays can be avoided. We can advise you on your best options to avoid unnecessary expense and work. The most popular and handiest options are species rich grassland and hay meadows. However, if you wish to maximise your A.E.O.S. income which we would assume you do, wouldn't anyone, you would need to avail of the tree planting or hedging. In addition to being a Dept. Of Agric. registered hedging and tree nursery we are also approved R.E.P.S. planners, a one stop shop! Who better to advise you?" Pauraic says. He added: "We pride ourselves in being approachable. Remember there is no such thing as a silly question when it comes to finance. Contact us any time on 0862508805. If we can't answer the phone, it may be that we are busy operating machinery or out on deliveries or in my case changing nappies, but we will get back to you a.s.a.p."

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